At Houck Dermatology, we provide effective, professional treatment for verruca vulgaris, commonly known as warts. While warts are usually harmless, they can be persistent, spread over time, and become uncomfortable or bothersome.
If you have tried over-the-counter treatments without success, in-office wart removal at our Estero or Naples, FL practices can help remove warts safely and more effectively—often with faster, more reliable results.
What Are Warts (Verruca Vulgaris)?
Warts are common skin growths that typically appear on the hands, fingers, or other areas of the body.
They may be:
- Small, raised, and rough in texture
- Flesh-colored, pink, tan, or white
- Grainy in appearance
- Marked by tiny black dots (clotted blood vessels)
Although warts are not dangerous, they can spread or increase in number if left untreated.
What Causes Warts?
Warts are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that enters the skin through small cuts or breaks.
Warts can spread through:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact
- Shared personal items such as towels or razors
- Contact with contaminated surfaces
After exposure, warts may take several weeks or even months to appear. Because everyone’s immune system responds differently, some people develop warts more easily than others.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop warts, but they are more common in:
- Children and young adults
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
- People with frequent skin irritation or minor cuts
When Should You Seek Treatment for Warts?
While some warts may resolve on their own, professional treatment is recommended if:
- The wart is painful or irritated
- It is growing, spreading, or changing in appearance
- Multiple warts are developing
- At-home treatments have not been effective
- The wart interferes with daily activities
Early treatment can help prevent spreading and reduce the need for more extensive care.
Wart Removal Treatment Options
At Houck Dermatology, we offer several in-office treatments designed to remove warts safely and effectively.
Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment)
Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart. This causes a blister to form, and the wart gradually falls off. Multiple sessions may be needed for complete removal.
Electrocautery
This method uses controlled heat to destroy wart tissue. It is precise and effective for stubborn or thicker warts.
Topical Treatments
Prescription-strength topical medications may be used to break down wart tissue over time.
Your treatment plan will depend on the size, location, and number of warts, as well as your overall skin health.
Why Choose Houck Dermatology for Wart Treatment
Choosing professional care can make a significant difference in how quickly and effectively warts are treated.
Patients choose Houck Dermatology for:
- Accurate diagnosis and evaluation of skin growths
- Safe, in-office removal techniques
- Treatment plans tailored to each patient
- Care designed to minimize discomfort and reduce recurrence
- Expertise in both medical and aesthetic dermatology
- Thoughtful treatment approaches designed to minimize scarring and protect overall skin quality
Our goal is to provide clear answers and effective solutions so you can feel confident in your skin again. Visit our provider page to learn more about our team.
FAQs About Wart Removal in Southwest Florida
Are warts contagious?
Yes. Warts can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces, especially if the skin is broken or irritated.
Do warts go away on their own?
Some warts may resolve over time, but many persist or spread without treatment.
Why aren’t over-the-counter treatments working?
At-home treatments can be slow and may not fully remove deeper wart tissue. In-office treatments are often more effective.
Can warts come back after treatment?
Warts can recur, but professional treatment reduces the likelihood and helps manage future outbreaks.
Are plantar warts different from other warts?
Yes. Plantar warts develop on the soles of the feet and can be painful due to pressure from standing or walking. They often grow inward and require professional treatment.
Will wart removal leave a scar?
Wart removal is generally performed in a way that minimizes scarring. The risk depends on the size, location, and type of treatment used. At Houck Dermatology, we take a careful approach to preserve surrounding skin and support optimal healing. Because we are a full-service dermatology practice, we can also recommend treatments to improve skin texture and appearance if needed after removal.
Schedule Your Wart Removal Consultation in Estero or Naples, FL
If you are dealing with persistent or spreading warts, removal treatment at our Estero or Naples office can help you achieve faster and more effective results. Serving Southwest, Florida including Bonita Springs and Fort Myers, contact Houck Dermatology to schedule your consultation and explore the best wart removal options for your skin.